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Root Canal Specialist

Dental Artistry of Walnut Creek

Antonio Margiotta, DMD

Cosmetic Dentist & General Dentist located in Walnut Creek, CA

Men and women who learn they need a root canal often become anxious over the procedure in anticipation. Antonio Margiotta, DMD, of Dental Artistry of Walnut Creek wants you to know a root canal doesn’t have to be an unpleasant, anxiety-inducing experience. The accomplished dental team at Dental Artistry of Walnut Creek does root canals on a daily basis in Walnut Creek, California. Call or book an appointment online if you’re worried about a root canal treatment.

Root Canals

Why might I need a root canal?

A root canal is a dental treatment that saves and repairs an infected tooth. If your tooth becomes critically infected from the inside, Dr. Margiotta at Dental Artistry of Walnut Creek takes out the bacteria and any dead or dying tissue. In doing so, he is able to save your tooth and soothe your pain.

What causes the root of a tooth to become infected?

Roots and tissue inside your teeth can become infected with bacteria as a result of an injury to the tooth or from a cavity that is left untreated. The infected tissue can develop inside the pulp or root of your tooth if you neglect to go to the dentist. This can cause a host of other problems if the infection spreads any further, so be sure to seek treatment.

What does an infected tooth look and feel like?

If you don't seek treatment for the infected tooth rather immediately, you might experience a significant amount of discomfort. Some typical symptoms of an infected tooth include:

  • Inflamed gums
  • Tooth soreness, especially when chewing
  • Acute tooth sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures
  • Smelly, bad breath
  • Pus coming from around the tooth
  • Painful aching in your mouth or jaw
  • Tooth darkening in color
  • A bump on your gum like a small pimple

What's involved in a root canal?

Most often, Dr. Margiottas completes the treatment in one or two appointments. You may first require an X-ray to determine the extent of damage to the tooth needing the root canal.

When it's time for the procedure to begin, Dr. Margiottas will apply a needle to anesthetize the area. If needed, he sticks a small sheet of rubber, or dental dam, around the tooth to protect it and keep it clean during the procedure. Once your tooth is numb, Dr. Margiotta makes a tiny cut in your tooth to access the area of infection inside the root.

Then, Dr. Margiotta takes away the damaged and unhealthy pulp using small files and sprays the area with water to remove debris. Once all the infected material is removed, Dr. Margiotta either seals the tooth or puts in a temporary filling to protect your tooth until you come back for a permanent crown.

Book a consultation online or call Dental Artistry of Walnut Creek if you show even a minor symptom or sign of tooth infection. It could be more serious than you think.